Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026 provides exceptional young leaders from under-represented countries with fully funded access to the One Young World Summit, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa from 3–6 November 2026. This flagship scholarship programme is designed to ensure that remarkable young leaders from almost every country in the world can participate in global decision-making spaces, regardless of financial barriers.
For African applicants, particularly those from Zimbabwe and the broader SADC region, this represents a significant opportunity to join a network of over 20,000 collaborators from 196 countries and gain visibility for locally-driven sustainable development initiatives.
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What the Scholarship Covers
Selected scholars receive comprehensive support that includes:
- Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Catering covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the Summit
- Access to the One Young World Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator
- Membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community, including exclusive regional events and mentoring opportunities
- The opportunity to represent your country at the Opening Ceremony flag-waving ceremony
Transport and accommodation provision is determined on a case-by-case basis for each selected scholar. The scholarship does not cover visa costs—successful applicants requiring visas to enter South Africa must pay all associated fees themselves, including travel to and from visa application centres.
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Eligibility Requirements
You are eligible to apply if you meet all of the following criteria:
- Aged between 18 and 35 at the time of the Summit (applicants under 18 at the time of the Summit will not be accepted)
- Demonstrated commitment to delivering positive change in your community or country
- Currently addressing key local and/or global issues through your work
- Proven track record of generating impactful and innovative ideas
Priority consideration is given to applicants from countries that have been less represented at previous One Young World Summits, and to first-time Summit attendees who are not already One Young World Ambassadors.
Selection Process and Timeline
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with scholars selected continuously throughout the cycle. Selected candidates will be notified via email between June and October 2026.
Due to the high volume of applications received, One Young World does not provide individual feedback on unsuccessful applications or respond to email enquiries about selection outcomes. Applicants should monitor their email accounts, including spam folders, for notifications.
By applying for this scholarship, you may also be considered for other opportunities offered by One Young World and its partners.
Application Procedure
The application process is conducted online through the official One Young World platform. To apply:
- Visit the official One Young World Leading Scholarship page
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and professional information
- Provide evidence of your leadership experience and impact
- Demonstrate how your work addresses local or global challenges
- Submit your application before the rolling deadline closes
Ensure all information provided is truthful and verifiable, as misrepresentation may result in disqualification.
Strategic Value for African Leaders
For Zimbabwean and SADC region applicants, the Leading Scholarship offers particular value. Cape Town’s proximity reduces travel complexity compared to previous Summit locations, and the Summit’s focus on sustainable development aligns directly with regional priorities including climate resilience, youth employment, and governance innovation.
The Ambassador Community membership provides ongoing access to regional networking events, mentoring, and speaking opportunities that can amplify the impact of community-level initiatives. Previous African delegates have leveraged this network to secure funding, partnerships, and policy influence for projects ranging from agricultural innovation to education technology.
Important Considerations
Applicants should be prepared for the following:
- Visa requirements: South Africa requires visas for many African nationals; budget approximately $50–150 for visa fees plus travel to application centres
- Accommodation uncertainty: Housing is not guaranteed and may require self-arrangement
- Professional preparation: The Summit involves intensive networking; prepare elevator pitches and project summaries in advance
- Follow-through commitment: Ambassador status requires ongoing engagement with the One Young World community
Official scholarship page: https://www.oneyoungworld.com/scholarship/leading-scholarship-2026
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
